Bicycle accidents can lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection cyclists have compared to those in vehicles. When a cyclist is struck by a car, truck, or another motor vehicle, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
At Ted Law Firm, we specialize in representing victims of bicycle accidents in Myrtle Beach, Horry County, and surrounding areas. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you recover the full compensation you deserve, guiding you through every step of the legal process.
What Does Bicycle Accident Compensation Cover in South Carolina?
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and any ongoing treatments you require.
- Lost wages: Compensation for the income you’ve lost while recovering from your injuries, and future income loss if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and trauma caused by your injuries.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD resulting from the accident.
- Permanent disability: If your injury results in long-term or permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation for future losses.
- Property damage: Compensation for damage to your bicycle and any personal property involved in the accident.
- Wrongful death: If a loved one was killed in a bicycle accident, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other damages.
At Ted Law Firm, we’ll ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve for all your damages.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Myrtle Beach
Bicycle accidents can occur due to various factors, many of which are caused by the negligence or recklessness of other road users. Some common causes of bicycle accidents in Myrtle Beach include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers texting, using their phones, or engaging in other distractions may fail to notice cyclists on the road.
- Failure to yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections or crosswalks often cause accidents.
- Speeding: Drivers traveling at excessive speeds may not have enough time to react to cyclists on the road.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug-impaired drivers are a significant risk to cyclists, as they may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Reckless driving: Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, unsafe lane changes, or running red lights can result in accidents with cyclists.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained roads are hazards for cyclists, leading to accidents.
- Inadequate bike lanes: Inadequate or poorly marked bike lanes can force cyclists into traffic, increasing the risk of collisions with motor vehicles.
If you’ve been injured due to any of these causes, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Concussions, brain damage, or skull fractures caused by impacts to the head.
- Spinal cord injuries: Injuries to the spine that can cause paralysis or long-term mobility issues.
- Broken bones: Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis from the impact of the crash.
- Internal injuries: Organ damage, internal bleeding, or other serious injuries from blunt force trauma.
- Whiplash: Neck and back injuries caused by the sudden jerking motion during a crash.
- Facial injuries: Cuts, bruises, or fractures caused by impacts with the road or the vehicle.
- Road rash: Skin abrasions caused by sliding across the road surface.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD caused by the traumatic experience of the accident.
Even accidents that seem minor can result in lasting injuries. It’s important to seek medical care immediately after any bicycle accident and consult with a lawyer to discuss your legal rights.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Myrtle Beach
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical care immediately: Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional to document all injuries and prevent future complications.
- Call the police: Report the accident to law enforcement and get a police report, which will be vital for your claim.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle and other vehicles involved in the crash.
- Collect information: Get contact details and insurance information from the driver(s) involved, as well as any witnesses.
- Avoid admitting fault: Never admit liability at the scene of the accident. Let the police and insurance companies determine fault.
- Contact Ted Law Firm: Speak with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer to discuss your legal options and determine the best course of action.
Who Is Responsible in a Bicycle Accident?
In a bicycle accident, liability may fall on the driver of the motor vehicle, but other parties may also share responsibility. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The driver: If the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence, such as distracted driving, impaired driving, or failure to yield, they may be held liable.
- Property owners: If the accident occurred due to hazardous conditions on private property, such as a poorly maintained sidewalk or parking lot, the property owner may be responsible.
- Local authorities: If poor road conditions, such as potholes or insufficient signage, contributed to the accident, the local government may be liable.
- Bike manufacturers: If the accident was caused by a defect in the bicycle, the manufacturer or distributor may be responsible.
At Ted Law Firm, we will investigate the cause of your accident to identify all liable parties and ensure they are held accountable for your injuries.
How We Help Bicycle Accident Victims in Myrtle Beach
At Ted Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping bicycle accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Investigate the cause of the accident: We gather all the evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: We handle all communications with the insurance companies to ensure you are treated fairly and receive a full settlement.
- File a lawsuit: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for justice.
- Provide emotional support: We understand the emotional toll a bicycle accident can take, and we are here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.
Talk to a Myrtle Beach Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Myrtle Beach, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner we can start working on your case.
At Ted Law Firm, we proudly serve clients in Myrtle Beach, Horry County, and throughout South Carolina. You don’t pay unless we win your case—no upfront costs, just experienced legal help from a team that puts your recovery first.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
